Seattle Seahawks 2014 Training Camp Profile: Kiero Small

By Jarrod Patterson

Nelson Chenault – USA Today Sports

The Seattle Seahawks have never been shy when it comes to drafting their type of players. The guys they look for are typically ultra-competitive, tough players with unique attributes and a high football I.Q. That pretty much sums up fullback Kiero Small in a nutshell.

Small was the Seahawks final selection of the 2014 NFL Draft, with his name finally being called with the 227th overall pick in the seventh round. Despite the long wait, just being drafted was a major accomplishment for the former University of Arkansaslead back. As most fans are aware, the traditional fullback position has become somewhat antiquated with the NFL’s almost unanimous transition to high-flying, pass-based offenses.

With a universal need for additional pass-catchers on the roster, the fullback position has evolved into a running back/tight end hybrid now referred to as the H-back position. While it’s true that a quality H-back can be a tremendously valuable commodity, it’s also true that Small is no H-back.

In fact, there is little-to-no finesse in the 5-foot-8, 247 pound behemoth from Arkansas. Yet, he is by no means a one-trick pony. Small is a traditional fullback in every sense of the word. He obliterates linebackers and defensive backs as though he were swatting flies. With just one look, it’s clear what Small’s role in Seattle would be should he make the final roster; laying the wood.

However, don’t be confused. Paving the way for others isn’t the only thing Small is capable of. In his final season at UA, the giant fullback carried the ball 40 times for 151 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he added 19 receptions for 128 yards and another score through the air, showing the hands and versatility coach’s love, especially the coaches in Seattle.

Unfortunately, just being a capable player won’t exactly guarantee anyone a job with the Seahawks. With incumbent starter Michael Robinson’s offseason retirement, an opening in the starting lineup has been created. However, Small will definitely have his hands full from day one if he hopes to contend for that spot.

After all, fellow Seahawk fullbacks Derrick Coleman and Spencer Ware are on the roster as well, and both have shown a penchant for making plays with limited opportunities. Obviously, this is a quality that leaves a lasting impression in the minds of Head Coach Pete Carroll and Offensive Coordinator Darrell Bevell.

Therefore, in the end, the big man named Small is going to have to make plays early and often in training camp if he hopes to officially bust into this position battle. Otherwise, he could be looking for another team needing a traditional fullback. Unfortunately for him, that list is getting shorter every day.